Second Chance Ranch

by Thiefoflight68

Katsuki Bakugou ended up in prison after a gang shootout. Three years later he applies for a post prison program. The job he thinks he's getting and the one fate finds for him are completely different. A chance meeting with a cute freckled face man brings him to the Midoriya Family Ranch, also known as Second Chance Ranch by the prior prisoners that have made a made a home there.

12. Digging Deep

Unlocking his truck, Shouto climbed inside and stared out at the neighborhood. Late Sunday mornings were usually quiet with only a few people gardening in front of modest houses. He'd chosen this area since it was simple and down to earth. A good reflection on himself as a candidate for the upcoming election. The image he was going for was a big time rancher breaking away and starting on his own, and things were starting to finally fall into place.

Tenya had the brilliant idea to use Iz's idiocy against him. He claimed that if they could prove to the judge that Iz had no intention of marrying him, they might be able to speed up the foreclosure. The fact that Iz had spewed everything to Hound Dog would make it even easier. They could call an officer of the law as a witness to his statement and there would be no doubt of their claim.

The icing on the cake was now the stupid mechanic was going to prison.

So why the fuck was he so uneasy?

Iz was backed into a corner, the convict was getting what he deserved, they were poised to take over the ranch and his family's finances were going to be resolved.

But nothing seemed right.

He'd tossed and turned all night. Each time he'd fallen into a fitful sleep, Mirio had popped into his dream doing something so outrageous he'd jerked awake in a cold sweat. Now, he was exhausted.

To make matters worse, Tenya had wanted to have sex this morning and even tried to give him a blowjob, but the damn mongrel kept invading his brain the whole time. He'd ended up making some stupid excuse and running out.

What was going on with him?

Letting out a long breath, he leaned back on the headrest.

"That's a hell of a long sigh."

"SHIT!" He spun around so fast his knee slammed into the steering wheel. Grabbing his leg, he hissed in pain as the very man that he'd been thinking about smiled at him. "Dammit Mirio! What the hell are you doing in my truck?" He snapped, rubbing his throbbing kneecap.

"Followed you," Mirio managed to squeeze into the front and plopped into the passenger seat, swinging his legs around.

"I can fucking see that," he shoved the key into the ignition and started his truck. He did not want him to figure out about his house. "Where's your truck, I'll drop you off."

"At home."

Shouto tapped the steering wheel impatiently waiting for the real answer.

Mirio laughed. "Really!" He shrugged and gave him an innocent smile. "Caught a ride with my dad who needed to get some equipment. He thinks we're meeting for lunch."

"Fine, I'll take you back."

Mirio's hand landed on top of his and squeezed tightly. "Wait a second, I just got here." Stretching across him, he looked out the window at his single-story ranch house. "Who lives there?"

Tensing, Shouto yanked his hand free and tried to shove him away with his elbow. "Get off me."

Mirio didn't budge. "Shouto," he glanced at him. "Don't tell me you've been a naughty boy?" Dropping his hand off the wheel he pressed down on his groin and shifted his weight to bear directly down on him.

"MIRIO!" Shouto jerked his hips back trying to get away from him as he crushed his balls. He only applied more pressure. "Stop," his voice ratcheted up at least three octaves. Clutching at Mirio's shirt, he panted through the pain.

"I'm only asking a simple question."

"It's… it's my… house," sweat started beading on his forehead as the agonizing pain radiated upwards into his stomach.

"Your house?" Mirio turned off his truck and pulled out the keys. Giving a sharp squeeze to his aching balls, he lifted his hand.

"Fu…ck," Shouto sagged in relief.

"Don't get comfortable quite yet." Sliding over to the passenger side, he opened the door and jumped down. Holding up the keys he jingled them, "I wanna tour."

"No way," Shouto gritted out but he'd already slammed the door and walked around to the sidewalk. Gripping the wheel tightly, he glared at that fucking mischievous grin on his face. "Fucking blondes."

Why was he here, at his house of all places?

Did he know about his plan?

That was the only thing that made sense, otherwise why would he care? Shouto looked at the front door,did he know about Tenya?

There was a loud thumping as Mirio slapped the hood of the truck and waved at him. "I'm going in," he thumbed towards the house and started walking up the sidewalk.

"Shit." Shouto moved as fast as his aching balls would allow and climbed out of the truck. Running slightly hunched over, he could see Mirio had already reached the porch. "Stop!" He yelled. Mirio turned and cocked a brow. Then lifting his hand to knock, he paused with his fist in mid-air, waiting for him.

It hit Shouto at that moment.He already knew.

His knuckles landed on the wood and the sound seemed to vibrate in the enclosed space.

Panicking, Shouto slid to a stop. Tenya was about to answer the door. "Fuck!" He backed up a step.

"Shouto?" Mirio tipped his head. "You said this was your house. It'd be rude to leave me here alone."

There was no stopping the collision that was about to happen, and it was probably in his best interest to try to reduce any fallout.

Right?

His stomach rolled and twisted as anxiety chewed through him. Reversing his direction again, he walked under the covered porch.

"That's better." Mirio smiled and looked around his sanctuary. Leaning over he peered into the beautiful pond that was trickling water perfectly so as not to disturb the fish inside. "You don't see a lot of Koi ponds around here."

Normally Shouto's pride in his lush garden and prize goldfish would have him showing everything off, but not today. His eyes never left the door and his ears ached when he heard the click of the lock as Tenya released the deadbolt. He cringed as the door flung open and he stood glowering in the doorway.

"Did you forget something?" Tenya huffed, crossing his arms expecting it to be him.

The next moments would've been comical had any of this been funny.

Tenya's eyes popped open about three sizes too big in surprise. "M-Mirio?" His gaze then darted past him and spying Shouto, his face turned white from shock. He grabbed the door to slam it shut, but his reaction was way too late. Mirio had already shoved his body into the doorway causing the door to smash into Tenya, who flew backwards, stumbling from the entry into the living room. His face was even whiter now, clearly terrified of the hulking beast that had crashed into his home.

"Fuck," Shouto stood frozen in the doorway.

"Shouto?" Tenya pushed up his glasses trying to regain his composure. "What's the meaning of this?"

"Hello Tenya," Mirio touched his hat and spun in a circle eyeing the home. "You haven't changed a bit." He tapped the side of his temple, "a bit of grey."

Tenya's hand flew up to cover his hair. "I-It's been a few years," he stammered self-consciously.

"Yep, it sure has." Peering over his shoulder at Shouto, Mirio patted the side of his leg, as if calling a dog. "C'mon now," he drawled sarcastically, "get your ass in here too. You need to be in on this little powwow."

Squeezing his fists tight, Shouto debated what to do. If he ran, Mirio would just track him down, which he could deal with but then there was Tenya. He was going to have to talk him off the ledge. Chewing on his cheek, he finally stalked into the house. His stomach churning viciously.

"Good boy," Mirio chuckled as Shouto shot past him to stand next to Tenya.

"What's going on?" Tenya snarled. Shouto just shook his head.

Whistling softly, Mirio put his hands behind his back and began to stroll through home. "This is a nice place, I like the open concept." He'd stopped at the large slider that overlooked the pool in the backyard. "Wow," he grinned, still way too friendly for the situation. "If I'd known you had a pool, we could've cooled off this summer."

"Um," Tenya pursed his lips, "may I ask why you're trespassing in my home."

"Your home?" Mirio glanced at him and then Shouto.

"Yes, I rent from… the current owner." He coughed and fidgeted with his robe.

"Which is…" Mirio pointed at Shouto, "him?"

Tenya looked stricken. "Y-Yes, but as a renter I have rights. The owner can't randomly intrude on my home without proper notice."

"True… but you opened the door quite willingly." Mirio turned and gave Tenya the once over.

Shouto followed his gaze and stifled a groan of frustration. Tenya had answered the door in the silk Japanese robe that he'd bought him for his birthday.

"You look nice by the way," Mirio winked. "That's a sexy vibe."

Tightening the sash, Tenya blushed and crossed his arms. "I - I will ask nicely before calling the cops. Get out."

"That was nice?" Mirio laughed and began walking towards the hallway behind them. "Is your bedroom back there?"

Tenya dashed to the side and spread out his arms to block him. "Stop! I said get out!"

"Just a quick peek, I promise."

"No!"

Twisting his lips, Mirio acquiesced. "I suppose that's a bit too personal. But I bet that the bed is probably unmade."

To Tenya's credit, he kept a stoic look on his face. "It… is, as you can see from what I'm wearing, I was taking a nap."

"A nap?" He swung around to give Shouto a knowing wink. "I bet you didn't get much sleep." Sighing, he seemed to run out of whatever he'd planned to say and staring at the floor, he rocked on his heels. When he looked back up, his blue eyes were flashing angrily, all the mock playfulness stripped away. "Shouto? What's going on here?"

Shouto's mind whirled with an answer.Who cares about this mongrel?He swallowed hard, that's right...This is what he wanted. Straightening, Shouto kept his face impassive. "We're working together."

"Together?"

"I'm not sure if you could say we'retogetherbut we are friends with benefits." Tenya let out a snarky laugh and scooted back over to put his arm on Shouto's shoulder. "He told me about you. How you've panted after him." Shouto tensed as Mirio narrowed his eyes.

This is what he wanted.

Tenya ruffled his hair tenderly. "Aren't you the least bit embarrassed that everyone makes fun of you?"

Shouto saw Mirio's cold visage splinter for a brief second before he quickly glanced away. His wide chest expanded as he took a deep breath before looking back to glare at them with such animosity that Shouto's stomach convulsed even worse.

This is what he wanted.

"Must be hard to juggle two friends."

"Two friends?" Tenya tipped his head.

"That's a lot of benefits," Mirio smiled coldly, "wouldn't you say?"

Tenya stiffened next to him as the meaning dawned on him. Clearing his throat, he pulled his arm off his shoulder to feign covering his mouth. He didn't put it back. "There's no commitment or promise that Shouto's made to anyone." Tenya waved his hand dismissively, attempting to hide his discomfort.

"Well." Mirio scratched his neck, "he did make a promise to Iz, but we all know how that went and… candidly, you and I were part of that problem." He continued rocking on his feet. "I never expected us to be anything more than a fun fuck, but," he sucked in his lip, "you got me pretty good when I saw Tenya. A bit of a blast from the past." He studied the two of them. "Why haven't you gone by the ranch Tenya?"

"No reason," he shrugged. "It's not like I was close to anyone there. I only connected with Shouto recently." His lie was smooth. "Did you come barging in here to ask us some dumb questions?"

Mirio sighed as another pained expression crossed his face. For some reason Shouto suddenly wanted to leap across the living room and put his hand over his mouth. To scream at him not to say his next words. Tamping down such a ridiculous urge, he held himself ramrod straight.

This is what he wanted.

"You're right, this was stupid of me, wasn't it?" Mirio smiled sadly. "I guess this is goodbye then." He walked to the door and stood there for a few seconds and then, simply left.

"That was… interesting." Tenya breathed out accusingly.

Shouto watched his big back retreat down the walkway when he remembered he had no ride home. "I'll take you home!" He yelled as he raced through the house to the porch, patting his pockets for his keys.

Stopping at the end of his walkway, Mirio barely turned. "No, Shouto. Goodbye starts now, I'll hitch back."

"Mirio," Shouto's mouth went dry as a vicious pain clawed into his chest. It felt like his heart was being ripped from his body.

"You - You have my keys," he held out his hand, wishing he could say anything else.

This is what he wanted.

"I do?" He stopped and pulled them out of his pocket.

Shouto moved to take them from him, when, at the last moment, he threw them into the air. Tracking their flight, Shouto spun to see them splash through the surface of his koi pond and disappear.

"Hey!" He scrambled to the edge of the water. His big fish poked its nose out to look for food. "You… you ass!" He turned to yell at him, but he'd already walked away. "Damn mongrel! You piece of shit!" His voice echoed in the enclosed space. Staring at the empty sidewalk, he wondered if he'd pop back, laugh and spout some joke about making him angry… as usual. But it was quiet. He heard the shuffle of Tenya's slippers at the front door.

"I can't believe you fucked him," Tenya huffed.

Shouto looked down at his fish.

This is what he wanted.

"Can you even see the keys in there?"

"No." Rolling up one sleeve, he began feeling around at the bottom of the dark water.

"Well, you'll be relieved to get him out of your life."

"Yeah."

"Almost like Iz, remember how he used to be like that? But this guy, geez, he was way more annoying. I mean, did you see how he acted like you belonged to him or something? I hate possessive jerks like that."

Shouto moved his hand along the bottom of the pond, trying to ignore the way his words were grinding into him.

"Do you want me to get the net?"

"Could you?" Seeing his reflection in the pond, Shouto frowned at himself.

This is what he wanted… wasn't it?

The lunch table was quiet, no one was really eating. Sero pushed his potato chips around his plate.

"This sucks," Shin frowned, "I wish he'd call already."

"You look like shit, Iz," Kiri shoved his own lunch away. "I bet you didn't sleep at all last night."

Iz knocked his plate aside and laid on his arms. "I've left a million messages for both Shouto and Mr. Aizawa."

"It's Sunday," Sero half-shrugged, "maybe they're out." Although he highly doubted Shouto would call him back. When Iz had told them what had happened at the sheriff's station, he'd kept his comments to himself. He was glad that Shouto hadn't taken him up on the marriage proposal, but they still had to figure out how to spring Bakugou. He, Kiri and Shin had stayed up most of the night brainstorming on the best ways to get him out because they all knew that he had to be scared as hell.

From down in the courtyard a horn honked loudly. Getting up from his chair, Kiri looked out the window. "Someone rich is here."

"Rich?" Shin leapt up and leaned over his shoulder, gawking at whatever was down below. "Took some balls to drive that baby down our road. It's barely a few inches off the ground."

"Tell them to go away," Iz grumbled, burying his head in his arms.

"It's probably someone lost, I'll give them directions." Kiri grabbed his hat and headed out the door.

"Look at this car though, Sero. Bet our big mechanic would've loved to have seen it."

"Shin," Sero gave him a warning look.

"What kinda car?" Iz mumbled.

"Huh?"

Popping his head up, Iz pushed back his chair and walked to the window. Wiping his eyes, he shook his head. "Not his style."

"That's a fucking Ferrari, Iz, that's everyone's style," Shin elbowed him lightly.

"No, he likes Camaros and Mustangs, big American cars."

Throwing his arm over his shoulder, Shin pulled him close. "It's gotta work out somehow. Aizawa will call, Shouto will drop the charges." He kissed him on the head, "Even I miss the idiot."

Letting out a soft sigh, he hugged him back. "Thanks Shin, I sure hope so." Looking out the window, they leaned on each other.

"Did Kiri scare them off yet?" Sero put his hands behind his head and leaned back staring at the ceiling. Sitting around fucking waiting was the pits, but they were all too damn nervous to do anything else.

"Geez, that guy is huge and look at his hair, it's white as a ghost," Shin laughed. "Seriously, come look Sero. Wonder how he got lost?"

"Shin," Sero stood slowly and walked up the window, yawning loudly. He could see the car below in the courtyard and standing next to it was - "Holy Moly! That… that… that's Mezou Shouji!" He plastered his face up to the glass blinking. "Fuck! It's really him!"

"Who?"

"Mezou Shouji, it has to be him! I mean, look at him. He's gorgeous and that car, he loves sports cars." Sero started for the door, "I gotta meet him." Slamming the kitchen door behind him, he raced down the stairs. "Hello!" He grinned and waved, running towards them. Kiri backed up as Sero barreled forward, shoving between them. "Hi! Hi! I'm Sero Hanta."

"Uh, this is our foreman," Kiri's brows knitted as he gave Sero a questioning look.

Grabbing Mezou's hand, Sero shook it violently. "So, so, so glad to meet you! I watch all your shows, you are incredible!"

"Thank you," Mezou laughed as he continued to shake his hand. "Are you Bakugou?"

Sero dropped his hand and gaped at him. "No, uh… you know him?"

Shaking out his arm, he smiled. "Not personally. My friend Hiroyuko Youshino knows him."

"Hiro… who?"

"Um, Hiroyuko" Mezou swiped at the hair hanging in his face and looked around at the buildings. "I was really hoping to meet him."

"He's out on the trail right now," Kiri hit Sero on the shoulder. "Right, Sero? He's bringing in some of our cattle, can we help you?"

"I hope so, he sent Hiroyuko some meat. Would you happen to know where he got it by any chance?"

"The package of meat we sent off?" Sero's brows popped up.

"You sent it?"

"Well, it's actually Iz... I mean, Izuku's. His family owns the ranch. Bakugou bought some to send as a gift." His eyes grew big as realization dawned. "Holy cow! Did you teach him how to cook in prison?"

"No! No!" He held up his hands. "That was Hiroyuko, he's been a chef for a while but was interested in teaching. He had a contact in the prison system and applied to teach a certification course where Bakugou was serving time. I helped him create the course when he got the job but that was the extent of my involvement."

"Wowww…" Sero sighed. "That's why his doodles are so good."

Mezou's head tipped slightly, he started to say something to him and then stopped. Turning, he looked at Kiri. "Can you help me?"

Chuckling Kiri slapped Mezou on the back. "C'mon up and meet Izuku."

"Yeah," Sero bounced excitedly. "Come up! He's gotta meet you!" He knew he was prattling on like a complete idiot, but he couldn't help it. You didn't meet your idol every day of the week. Walking into the kitchen, he swung the door open proudly for their guest. "Come in."

"Thank you," Mezou walked into the large kitchen and smiled warmly as he looked around. "This reminds me of my childhood home."

"Everyone," Sero grinned ear to ear, ignoring the irritated looks from Iz and Shin. "This is Mezou Shouji, the founder and head chef ofLa Petite Bouchée. Currently holder of seven separate Michelin stars. His restaurant has three currentlyandhe taught Katsuki Bakugou how to cook."

"Well, the first two statements are correct," Mezou laughed sheepishly as a faint blush stained his cheeks. "I'm surprised to find a fan so far out in the country."

"All I watch are cooking shows and yours are my favorite. That last show, when you did that mushroom-"

"Sero." Iz stopped him as he rubbed his forehead. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but I'm confused. This person taught Kacc… Katsuki how to cook?"

"No," Mezou shook his head. "There's been some confusion. My friend, Hiro, taught him how to cook in a prison program. I only helped outline the course for him."

"Oh," Iz still looked confused.

"Bakugou sent some meat to Hiro," Mezou looked back at Kiri again. "Are you the one I can ask about the source of that exquisite beef?" His voice was hopeful.

"You ate our meat!" Sero lunged forward and grabbed his shoulders. "Mezou… Mezou… You ate our steak?" He was sure he was going to pass out from sheer happiness.

"Sero," Kiri snapped, "for someone who's fairly level-headed, you are acting like a damn fool." Grabbing his collar, he shoved him into a chair. "Mezou, the beef you ate was raised on this ranch." He pointed to Iz. "It's a small herd that the Midoriya family keeps for themselves. It's not for sale." He squeezed Sero's shoulders tight, a signal for him to shut up.

Iz nodded in agreement. "He's right and I'm sorry you drove all the way out here. My family only raises a few head per year, not enough for any type of commercial demand."

"But that is exactly what I was hoping to hear." Mezou smiled wide. "This," he held his hands out gesturing to the kitchen. "This cozy ranch with prized cattle." He paused. "When you say a few head? How many do you mean?"

"Generally, five or six each year."

Rubbing his chin, Mezou paced the kitchen stopping at the chalkboard, he read through the numbers that Iz had scrawled on it.

Sero realized they'd never put the race winnings on the board yet. "Sorry Mezou," he knew they needed to focus back on Katsuki. "Things are a little crazy for us right now."

"I can see," he spun around and clapped his hands loudly, getting their attention. "Sero obviously knows about me but do any of you know the founding principle of my cooking?"

"No." Shin rested his chin in his hands. "But I guess you're gonna tell us."

"I am," he winked. "I think it will help explain why I'm so excited about your ranch." Moving around the kitchen, he began to talk, his arms moved wildly. "I was raised on a small farm. We only ate what we could raise ourselves and took good care of the animals entrusted to us. It was with this ideal that I became a chef. I was disheartened by the veil that was placed between the farm and the plate. That people taste only what the chef creates, forgetting where everything starts!"

He paused, making sure he still had their attention, apparently assuming he did, he continued. "As a chef it is my responsibilityto make something exquisite for the sake of that animal. So, I opened my own restaurant to do something completely different. I do not just place good food in front of my clients, I give them the whole animal. I present its life and that of the ranches that raise the animal with such care and dedication."

"The whole animal?" Kiri quipped. "How does that work?"

"I have my ranchers take photos of their livestock throughout their lives. Being born, standing with their mother, grazing in the fields. These photographs are presented in a menu book to our clients, so they can see the connection of life."

"You do that on your show," Sero added, grinning widely. This man oozed with charisma.

"I do and that is why your tiny herd isexactlywhat I am looking for… don't you see? A family that raises a few choice cattle to be shared only with their dearest friends. To be treasured with loved ones." Walking over to the chalkboard, he picked up the chalk.

Shin raced up to him and yanked it out of his hand. "Don't write on that." He glared at him.

"Okay," he paused. Then leaning close, he whispered something to him. Shin drew back in surprise.

"Wh-What?" He stammered.

"The amount I'm offering for four of your personal herd." He tapped the board. "Would you write that on there for me?"

"Are you kidding?" Shin stared at him. Turning, he faced the chalkboard and began to write. They all walked closer to see what he was writing.

"Mezou, is this some kind of con?" Sero snapped harshly seeing the amount he'd written, his zeal cooling instantly. He was a good chef, but this was too much. "We've had a bad weekend with a good friend in trouble. If you've come to make fun of us, I will personally punch you so hard that you see every damn one of those Michelin stars whirling above your head."

"I have never been more serious." Mezou walked to the table and sat down, folding his hands. "So serious in fact, that I will pay up front for four and a deposit for next year."

"But..." Iz paused, still gaping at the board. "That's a fortune for so few cattle! I make less than that on our regular herd that we send to market."

"Don't you understand?" Mezou laughed. "That's what I want. Your cattle are like a rare masterpiece, something that glorifies the purpose of life. But," he clapped his hands, "if you happen to raise more, I would be willing to pay for up to twenty per year."

"So, you'll pay this money now?!" Shin circled the number on the chalkboard. "Iz!" He almost burst out crying, "we have enough money! You can pay off the loan."

"I wondered what that number was for," Mezou smiled wryly. "So, what do you think?"

Clearing his throat, Kiri stepped close to Iz and whispered quietly, "you might be able to bribe Shouto to not file those charges."

"What are you talking about bribing?" Shin tapped his foot leaning closer to hear him.

"Nothing Shin, just a thought that popped in my mind about our blonde chef while he's out on the trail. With the extra money, maybe Iz could convince someone to let him come home."

"What the hell are you talking about Kiri, he's in jail."

"Oh…" Mezou frowned, "I'm sorry to hear that."

"Fuck, Shin," Kiri backhanded him on the shoulder. "I was trying not to broadcast that fact."

"Don't be upset, it doesn't change my offer."

"Mezou," Iz extended his hand. "The Midoriya ranch would be proud to present our livestock in your restaurant."

Taking his hand, he grinned. "Wonderful!

"You know," Sero scratched his chin thoughtfully. "I know how much your show likes to go out and see the animals. Katsuki brought them back from Ridge valley recently, would you like to go meet them?" His big eyes lit up with such joy, chills ran down his arms.

"Really?"

"Sure. Can you ride?"

"Yes, of course."

"If you have time we can go down to the south pasture."

"How about I write up the contract while you go down?" Iz jumped up from his chair. Sero knew he was ready to bolt to Shouto's place this instant. The excitement of getting the money was electric, after a fucked up twenty-four hours it was nice to see everyone smiling.

"Perfect, be sure to include your wiring information and I will have the money for you by tomorrow."

"Great!" He dashed out of the kitchen to his office.

Mezou stood and smiled at Sero, "now, may I meet your works of art?"

Ripping off a piece of paper, Izuku began writing out the money they'd managed to raise.

Would Shouto take a bribe? Would he even have enough after paying off the loan?

Texting him, he held his breath, this had to work. Pacing in his office, his phone flashed.

Shouto - busy right now, truck problems. What do you need?

Izuku - I just want to talk, please.

The icon spun and then stopped. Biting his lip, he stared at the phone, willing him to reply.

Shouto - Fine. Give me a few hours, meet at my ranch.

Hope soared through him for the first time since seeing Kacchan in that cell. If Shouto was willing to talk, he had a chance. Sitting down he knew he had to make him an appealing offer. If Mezou would pay for up to twenty head per year, then he could offer Shouto a large amount of those profits each year. They only needed enough to keep the ranch running and a little extra for themselves. Turning on his computer, he began adding up the numbers.

Pulling up into the Todoroki's driveway, Izuku saw Fuyumi playing with her two boys. Waving, she walked over as he got out of his truck.

"Hey Iz," she pulled him into a big hug.

"Hi Fuyumi, I haven't seen you since our graduation at university." He gaped and pointed to her kids. "Man, I know it's only been a year since I saw them but they're huge!"

Laughing, she smiled proudly, "amazing, isn't it? I feel like they were just babies."

"Are you visiting your dad?"

She let out a small sound and crossed her arms as if hugging herself. "I, uh, I'm getting a divorce."

"Oh, I'm so sorry."

Shrugging she watched her boys. "It's harder on them, I feel bad, none of it's their fault. I came back home so they could be around my dad. They need a calming influence right now and I'm, well…" She blew out a long breath. "I'm a basket case."

"I can imagine, if there's anything I can do for you, just let me know."

"Thanks, Iz," she smiled wistfully. "You were always one of the nicest kids in the valley, at least I thought so."

Blushing, he rubbed his neck, "thanks Fuyumi."

"Sorry to hear about you and Shouto, sounds like it's going around."

"Ah, yeah, I guess so," he wasn't sure how much she knew and after the race, he had no desire to confront any of his family. "Speaking of which, is he around?"

"Yep, in the barn with his babies," she winked. "You know how he loves his horses."

"He does," Izuku nodded and started towards the furthest building on the ranch. "Good to see you."

"You too!"

Walking to the barn, Izuku stepped inside the stunning space. Unlike the other barns on the property, this one was immaculate, with gorgeous dark stained wood stalls and gleaming metal doors. A few horses hung their heads out and called to him.

"Hey sweeties," Izuku took his time appreciating each one of them. Glancing into their stalls he could see these were no ordinary quarter horses.

"Here to buy a horse?" Shouto walked out of one of the stalls at the end. Izuku spun around and realized he'd been watching him.

"I don't think I could afford one of your horses anymore," he laughed softly.

"You're right, you can't." Hanging up a halter, he crossed his arms and waited. Izuku had everything perfectly memorized that he wanted to say but now standing here, he couldn't even think. Coughing, Shouto cleared his throat, "Well?"

Letting out a weighted breath. He pushed his hands into his pockets. "You know why I'm here."

Shouto just smirked and walked past him, petting the beautiful palomino mare that had shoved her head out hearing his voice. "I know… and I haven't changed my mind. So, what's the newest angle Iz? I have to give you credit, you're actually fighting a lot harder than I expected."

Trying not to let the fear run rampant, he steeled himself. "First, will you answer a question?"

Snorting, Shouto laughed. "If I want to, sure."

"What do you really want from our land?" Being here in front of him, his mind began to doubt the amount he had to offer. Shouto wasn't stupid and he calculated every last decision. For all of this to be planned… there had to be something behind his actions.

"You haven't put it together yet? I thought you had, considering you sicked Mirio on me, that was unexpected." He frowned and bit his lip.

"Sicked Mirio on you?" Izuku stared at him. For the first time in a long while, Shouto looked… vulnerable. "What are you talking about?"

"Oh, well, maybe it was yourcrew," he rolled his eyes disdainfully.

"What's going on with Mirio? Does this have something to do with Tenya camping out at the Ridge?"

"Kinda… yeah." He played with his mare's forelock. "There's money to be made from our valley and not from cows, Iz. My family needs money and your family has the means to help us get that money. It's really quite simple."

"But the Ridge? How is that worth money?"

"I don't want to discuss it with you," he flicked an irritated glance at him. "Get on with why you're here."

Sucking in a quick breath, he tried to keep his voice steady. "Was taking over our ranch the reason why you wanted to marry me?"

He pursed his lips and let his mare rub her head on his shoulder. "Good question… not at first. I enjoyed your attention and when Shin showed up, I was stupidly jealous. But then," he shrugged, "things changed. After that, it was about the ranch."

"Oh." Izuku leaned his back on the stall door watching him play with his horse.

"I guess that's shitty of me?" Shouto didn't look at him. "It's not like I had much of a choice after a certain point."

"A choice?" Izuku huffed, "how about being a decent human being for five seconds? A boyfriend that wasn't a complete asshole!"

"This isn't swaying me very hard to let your blonde out of jail."

Grinding his teeth, Izuku felt powerless. Shouto knew he held all the cards and was just toying with him. "I should've left you during university."

"I wasn't ever going to let that happen Iz, you know that… well, that is until he showed up." Running his hands up the horse's face, he massaged her ears.

"Did you ever think of asking outright for what you needed? I might have helped!" He kicked at the hard packed dirt.

"No, this is… too big. You would've never agreed."

"Too big?" His voice came out as a hoarse whisper. "How much?"

"Iz, the money that will be flowing in by this time next year, will be so much I could fill Ridge valley and there'd still be more," he smirked. "My family will probably be one of the wealthiest in the country."

"The country?" His heart sank. Wiggling his fingers, Izuku touched the offer that he'd brought. There was no way it would be enough. His throat constricted as his hopes were crushed.

"So, what do you have for me? Marriage? Maybe a blowjob I don't want," he gave him a cold look. "Better start digging deep Iz, because otherwise he goes to prison."

Dig deep.

Izuku knew there was only one thing that he had that was worth anything to Shouto and that was his family's ranch. Gasping, he looked up at the ceiling as tears welled in his eyes.

Could he go that deep for Kacchan?

His heart gave him the answer as it squeezed painfully at the thought of him laying on that cot in the cell. His fiery eyes dull, like he'd accepted that life had finally won. He fingered the slip of paper, the measly amount he'd thought to offer Shouto. Was there any price for a man's life? Especially one that you happened to love.

Did he really have any other choice?

"What if I could pay off the loan?" Shouto snapped his head up to stare at him, his eyes widening. The fear was evident. At that moment Izuku knew he'd won but for some reason it didn't make any of it feel better. "Come Monday, I can wire the money and pay off the loan."

"There's no way," Shouto spit out, but there was a slight tremor in his voice.

"I have the money, Shouto. Every penny." His face blanched, turning ghostly white. Izuku looked around at the beautiful barn. "Whatever it is you have planned to save the Todoroki clan, all of that requires my family's ranch, right?" Shouto was standing so still he looked like a statue. His horse jerked back and rocked nervously feeling his tension. "I'm assuming you need it as fast as possible too. Think about it," Izuku tipped his head, "if I pay off the loan, it'll be a long ugly battle around the marriage contract. Maybe two or three years in a public court before you might be able to bribe a judge to rule in your favor." A bead of sweat gathered at his temple and dripped slowly down his cheek, even in the cool of the barn. Izuku pressed harder. "Of course, the whole valley will know everything by then."

"Th-There's no way. You're bluffing!" He tried to glare at him but the worry pinching his face just made him look constipated.

"I'm not."

"Wait…" Shouto blinked for a moment as he processed everything he was saying. "Are you?" Then, his meaning hit and gaped at him, shocked at what he was offering. "You're a stupid fucker," he hissed quietly. "You'd really give it up. All for him?"

"I would." Izuku kicked his foot back and leaned on the wall. A strange calm had settled on him, it was cathartic after the intense anxiety he'd been feeling. Kacchan was going to be okay and that was all that mattered. "There's a lot you don't understand. If he goes back, he'll be killed."

"So dramatic," Shouto rolled his eyes. "Giving up your family heritage for love, what a damn simp."

"Maybe I am," Izuku tried to laugh but it caught in his throat. "I'm losing my ranch either way if you think about it. This time though, it's my choice, no one else's. And I'd rather have my friends and someone I truly love than a ranch and a cold husband."

Shouto's jaw clenched. "I'm not cold."

"Yes, you are. If any feelings begin to show, you shove them down until they shrivel up and die, just like you."

"Fuck you. That's not true," he sputtered angrily.

"Yeah, it is true. Don't you even know yourself?"

"I know who I am," he shoved his hands into his pockets. "I also know what I've done. I've never made excuses for my actions. Whatever happens, at least I take responsibility."

He realized that was probably the closest to an apology he was ever going to get from him, which was a miracle. Izuku studied his face closer, there was a softness that he only remembered from their childhood.

Sighing, Shouto's voice dropped lower, "It doesn't matter what you think." He looked around the barn, "I have what I need here, horses and my family."

"I agree." Izuku nodded, still trying to read his expression. "Family is the most important thing. But my family includes Kiri, Sero and Shin. If I'd married you, they would've been sent away. Now, we can all leave together."

"Right," Shouto sneered, "go live on some hardscrabble ranch and pinch your pennies, good luck."

"I don't know about hardscrabble. It's really amazing when you join forces with friends, you can accomplish quite a lot. I heard from Tsuyu that the Jiro's decided to split their ranch."

"That tiny place?"

"Who cares, Shouto? Look at what you're willing to do for your family. That's what I'm willing to do for the ones I love. Our ranch wasn't what made my life good, it was the people."

"You and fucking love."

He was glowering, but his normal icy front was melting, almost before his eyes. Izuku could see that he was rattled, and by something so big he was unable to hide it from him. "You don't believe in love? Even with everyone that's chased you around?" Izuku smiled. Shouto stared at his horse, not responding. Then it clicked, the pieces started to fall into place. "You mentioned Mirio?"

Shouto flinched visibly and looked down at the ground.

"As if I could love a loser like him!" He spat out as a bright red blush colored his cheeks and ears.

A stiff silence stretched between them. Seeing he wasn't going to say anything more, Izuku knew it was time to go. "Well, I'm not sure what you're doing with our ranch but whatever it is, I hope it's worth everything that you've put me through…" he paused. "And yourself." Shouto still didn't respond. "You know, I'm really glad you turned out to be a scumbag jackass because if I'd liked you… even remotely, I would've never fallen for my Kacchan."

"Fucking mongrels, I hate all of them. Are we done?" He wiped his hands on his jeans.

Izuku realized that he was agreeing to his terms. Chills swept across his body and his heart felt like it was going to explode. "I'm not sure, am I?"

"How do I know you won't pay off the loan after I drop the charges?"

"Good question," pushing off the wall, Izuku headed towards the barn door. "I guess you have to trust me."

"What if I don't?"

"Then we both lose everything that's important to us." He heard him let out a low growl as he walked away.

Shouto fed the last carrot to his mare trying to untangle his whirling emotions. He was getting the ranch, and not next year, right now. All the years of careful planning were finally paying off.

So, why did he feel like he'd lost?

Pulling out his phone, he made the call.

"Hound Dog, it's me, Shouto Todoroki. I've decided to drop the charges against Katsuki Bakugou."

He started to tell him his rights, but Shouto wasn't listening, instead he was desperately trying to understand why it felt like Iz was the one walking away with everything.

"Here's your stuff," Hound Dog handed Kacchan his wallet and keys. "I'm really glad that you and Shouto were able to work everything out, Iz." He sounded more than relieved. "I'll file the charges in my round file," he picked up his trash, tossed the paperwork in and winked. "I don't want to see your face in here again son, okay?"

"Right," Kacchan stood stiffly, his belongings in his hand.

"Are you alright?" Izuku could see he was still trying to figure out what had happened, and it was best to get him home, fast.Thenhe could explain everything. Fear coiled through his stomach thinking through how the hell he was going to tell him about the ranch, let alone the others. His anxiety only got worse as they headed home in his truck. Thankfully Kacchan was quiet, just staring out the window.

When they pulled up into the courtyard, the sun was already dipping into the horizon, the ranch was quiet. Izuku parked and killed the motor but neither of them moved or spoke. His nerves were almost out of control. Glancing over he wished he would say something. Finally unable to take the silence any longer, Izuku started to babble nervously. "Are you hungry? Want a bath?" The words were barely out his mouth when the truck dipped and rocked, the axle squeaking loudly. Kiri, Sero and Shin were jumping on the bumper and side steps. Kiri started thumping on his window, grinning wide. Shin ripped open the passenger door and dragged Kacchan from the truck.

Izuku bit back a laugh as they mauled him and buried him in a group hug. Kacchan was trying to hold his body rigid to keep himself from falling into them, but the weight of their mass was too much. Getting out of the truck, Izuku walked around slowly, watching as they poured their love out on him.

"I didn't miss you… but what the fuck," Shin teased and wrapped his arms around him. Sero was hugging his head, while Kiri pounded his back. Talking over each other as they celebrated. Izuku had trouble figuring out who was saying what, but he could hear the connection that was meant only for them.

"No way any of us could ever go back."

"We were never gonna let them take you."

"Saved me from committing another crime."

"Was gonna break you out tonight."

He knew their words had to be hitting hard, because Kacchan finally relented, sagging into their hugs. His voice was barely a hoarse whisper as he thanked them. Finally letting him go, Shin turned and smiled at him.

Izuku panicked.

"How'd you do it, Iz?" Shin laughed. "Did you bribe him with our new money?"

"Uh, yeah, sort of," his stomach plummeted, all the preparation on how he was going to tell them went out of his head. His mouth was dry, and the words stuck on his tongue.

"New money?" Kacchan looked at him sharply. "What new money?

Shifting uncomfortably, Izuku swallowed hard, those burning red eyes bore a hole into him. "We sold some of our beef."

"Sold some beef?" Sero rolled his eyes. "More like, made a fortune, and it was you who saved yourself."

That's right," Kiri grinned. "Your cooking instructor showed up out of the blue and paid a fortune for Iz's cows, all because you sent him some meat."

"Hiro came here?" Kacchan brows snapped together. "Seriously?"

"No," Sero shoved at Kiri. "This guy is clueless! It was Mezou Shouji!"

"He's not the only one clueless," Kacchan grumbled. "Who the hell is he?"

"Hell? Bakugou? I expected more from you!" Sero elbowed him, laughing at his annoyed glare. "He's only one of the world's top chefs! And he paid us a fortune for the herd. More than we needed to pay back the loan."

Kacchan didn't look any less irritated. "And how the fuck does he know Hiro?"

"I guess they're friends." He shrugged. "When Hiro tasted our meat, he got Mezou to try some and now he wants to serve ouramazingbeef in his restaurant."

"And Iz made a deal with the surplus cash to get Shouto to drop the charges." Kiri winked at Izuku and reached over ruffling his hair. "I knew you could do it."

Glowering, Kacchan spun on him. "How much?"

"Yeah," Shin leaned on Kiri, "how much did you have to give him?"

"Well-"

"It's none of your business Shin," Kiri bumped him playfully.

"Yeah, but it'smyfucking business if he paid formyrelease," Kacchan snarled, his ears and neck glowing a bright red.

"I, uh…" Izuku stepped back as all eyes landed on him expectantly. Licking his lips, he dropped his gaze to the ground.

"Freckles?" Kacchan grabbed his chin and yanked his head up. "How much did you pay that prick?"

"I.. I told him we had the money to pay off the loan." His heart was beating too fast to breathe.

"And?" His gaze narrowed on him. "How did that convince him?"

"I…I" His eyes welled with tears.

Kiri's smile faded, "Iz? Are you okay?"

"I tried..." he whimpered.

"Tried what?" Kacchan squeezed his chin harder. "Spit it out, what the fuck happened? How did you get me out?"

"There… there was nothing." He was in full panic mode. "T-There was nothing I could give him," Izuku stammered. Grasping at his wrist frantically, he pleaded. "Kacchan! I couldn't let you go, if you went back to prison-" he choked back his words, he'd never told him that he knew the truth.

"What thehelldid you do?" His entire face ignited in pure fury.

"I didn't have a choice! The ranch doesn't matter anymore! I couldn't let you die!" Tears spilled over as the finality of his decision cut through him. "I swear…I only had one…choice." He hiccupped violently. "I'm so sorry."

"Iz!" Shin patted his shoulder, "what's wrong man, why are you crying?"

Kiri's face drained of color, he glanced at Shin. "Iz?" His voice was hoarse. "Are you fucking with me? You let him have it?" Grabbing Shin, he locked him up in a bear hug. "It's gonna be okay." He kissed him on the head. "I promise everything is gonna be okay."

Seeing Kiri's reaction, Izuku could only keep repeating the same words over and over, the anguish that was twisting his heart poured out. "I'm sorry… I only had one choice...I'm so sorry."

Sero was next to understand.

"FUCK!" He screamed, squatting down, his head in his hands. "We were so close! FUCK!" He screamed again. "That crappy son of a bitch asshole… I wanna kill him!" His face burned red from his anger. "Is he at his ranch?" Izuku flinched but didn't answer. "That prick, he deserved to have a shotgun stuck up his ass a long time ago. And when I do it, I'm gonna fucking blow all that shit into his mouth, where it belongs." Jumping up he started to run for his cabin.

"NO!" Kiri hesitated for a moment. "Sero, stop!" But he kept running across the courtyard. Muttering under his breath, Kiri shoved Shin towards Izuku. "Watch him!" Turning, he raced after Sero and managed to catch up with him, tackling him into the ground.

"What the hell is going on? We have the money." Shin grabbed Izuku, his eyes growing too big. "Why the hell is everyone freaking out?"

"Fuck," Katsuki felt hollow.All because of him.It was happening again. He covered his face with his hands trying to block out the images in his mind.

His parents. His House. The heat of the fire. They'd died because of him.

A wave of nausea swept through him so violently he fell to his knees and puked, the acidic bile coating his mouth and throat. Coughing he bent over taking a wheezing breath as he tried to calm the gagging. Freckles was next to him, looking scared as shit, his face streaked with tears.

"It's okay Kacchan."

Katsuki gritted his teeth.It would never be okay.

Shinsou squatted down next to them both. "Iz?"

He sounded like a kid, scared and unsure. Katsuki spit on the ground and wiped his mouth. "He's not paying back the loan," he croaked, "he's letting Shouto have the ranch."

His face blanched as a wild look of desperation sparked deep in his eyes. "No! No! No!" Shinsou grabbed Freckles and hauled him to his feet. He shook him hard. "We have the money! Dammit! We can stay here. It's gonna be okay!"

Freckles was trying to jerk out of his grasp. "We'll get another ranch Shin! I promise, we'll stay together."

Letting go of him, Shin laughed cynically. "Together?" Putting his hands over his ears. He doubled over and started whispering to himself fiercely.

"Shinsou!" Katsuki spit more filth from his mouth and stood, his head started spinning. He'd not eaten or slept while he was in jail and throwing up had him feeling beyond lightheaded. He steeled himself trying to focus. "Shinsou! You need to snap out of it." He wasn't listening though. Clutching at his head, his lips were moving but Katsuki couldn't hear him.

"No…No…No." He started to mutter louder. "Once it's busted… can't be fixed. Everything's gone… She's gone…. can't be together anymore." He stopped suddenly, looked around and then sprinted for the barn.

"Fuck," Katsuki tried to chase after him, but another wave of nausea stopped him as he gasped, almost puking again. Before he could even take another step, he heard Shinsou opening one of the stall doors. There was no way he'd get to him in time and there was no fucking way he was getting on a horse. Changing direction, he reeled across the courtyard.

"Kiri!"

The red-head had Sero in death grip on the ground, his arm wrapped around his neck. Katsuki slid into the dirt and wedged himself between their bodies. Willing his muscles to work, he managed to get into a good position and lock his elbows behind Sero's back. "I can hold him!" He yelled in Kiri's face. "Shinsou got away, go get him before it gets too dark." As if on cue the sun slipped behind the horizon, dusty twilight darkening the area. "Get the fuck outta here!"

"Dammit," Kiri unhooked his arms. Shoving himself into Sero's face, he slammed their foreheads together. "Listen, you asshole, touch that gun and I'll be the one to kill you." Jumping up, he ran for the barn.

"Shit… fucking hard-headed asshole," Sero spewed a string of curses trying to wiggle free of Katsuki.

"Freckles!" Katsuki roared. "Help me!" His strength was fading fast.

"Sero?" His voice was a whisper but taking a deep breath to steady himself, he walked over and sat on the ground next to them. "It's going to be okay," he sounded like he was trying to convince himself.

"I should've killed him a long time ago Iz," Sero spat out. Katsuki managed to get his legs around his waist.

"You don't mean that Sero." Freckles murmured almost imperceptibly. "You don't want to hurt anyone, you never have."

"Really Iz?" Sero bucked against Katsuki's tight grip. "Why do you think I went to prison?"

"I know why," he tilted his head and looked up as the first star started to shine. "You only injured him. You didn't kill him."

"I didn't miss on fucking purpose! That twisted piece of shit!" He jerked and wrenched but Katsuki held tight not letting him free. "Dammit Bakugou!" Panting, he twisted sideways, trying again.

The sound of horse hooves thundering in the distance echoed through the courtyard. Sighing, Freckles laid a hand on Sero's cheek. "The ranch isn't important, I understand that now."

"Maybe to you," he seethed. "This place is my fucking life."

Katsuki grunted in agreement. "Call it off, I don't care." He rasped, his throat still throbbing. "Pay off the loan and let me go back to prison. Who the fuck am I to you? To any of you?"

"I won't," Freckles shook his head and smiled at him, even in the dark Katsuki could see his big green eyes shone with unshed tears. "It's my decision and it's done."

"Oh…fuck," Sero slumped over.

Katsuki could feel the change, he'd lost his fight. Tentatively he loosened his grip and when he didn't run, he let go. Sero didn't move, he just wrapped his hands around his head.

"The ranch or-" he didn't finish. "This is going to fucking kill Inko."

"It will." There was no apology in his voice. Freckles thinned his lips. "It'll be hard on everyone in the beginning."

Katsuki clicked his tongue. "Hard-headed and stupid, I'm not fucking worth it," he grumbled.

"I don't know." He leaned back on his hands. "Maybe I think so." A smile spread slowly over his face as he looked back up at the night sky. More stars twinkled in the waning light. "This could be a chance for all of us."

"To what? Lose your home?" His stomach felt queasy again. "You're an idiot."

"Am I?" But his voice was distant, his face unreadable.

"I still wanna kill him," Sero crawled over to Freckles. He laid his head in his lap and curled up. "Bossman, you sure about this?"

"I am Sero." Freckles leaned over and brushed Sero's bangs back tenderly, kissing him on the forehead.

"Okay Iz," Sero grabbed his face and kissed him full on the mouth. "We're in it together." Releasing him, he sat up and groaned, pulling up his sleeve, he hissed at the blood seeping from the gash on his elbow. "Fucking Kiri, had to go and slam me into the ground."

"We should go after them. It's dark, I doubt either of them took a light." Freckles stood and held out his hands to help them both up.

"Yeah," Sero grabbed his hand and stood, brushing off his pants as he looked around for his hat.

"Kacchan?" Freckles waited.

Planting his hand on the ground, Katsuki ignored his offer of help and stood, turning his back to him at the same time. "I'll go fire up the quad, the big light will help." Before Freckles could say anything else he walked off. He wasn't sure he could handle facing him right now.

Right now?Guilt weighed him down.How about ever again?

Sucking in the cold night air, he tried to tamp down the rolling sickness that was spreading like fire in his body.

TOL - So much happening. Izuku makes his decision and trades his ranch for his man. Shouto? Well, fuck him. Now Shin has gone off again - hopefully Kiri can catch up with him.